Can the downward force on a piston be increased by using a domed piston head configuration, assuming all other factors are equal?

The choice indicating that the downward force on a piston cannot be increased by using a domed piston head configuration is correct because the design of the piston head itself does not inherently add to the force being transmitted downwards. The downward force on a piston is primarily dictated by the combustion pressure acting on the piston surface area; altering the shape of the piston head alone does not change the amount of pressure generated during combustion.

Domed piston heads are often used for other reasons, such as improving combustion characteristics and potentially enhancing thermal efficiency. While such designs can influence the overall performance and efficiency of the engine, they do not alter the fundamental mechanics of the downward force being applied to the piston at a given moment. Therefore, using a domed piston head does not increase the downward force; instead, it may affect other aspects of engine operation or performance, but those do not translate into an increase in the force exerted on the piston.